The extra personal touch

If you’re looking for a Christmas gift with a little extra love, now is the time to stop the endless online scrolling.

Put down the phone and create something personal, thoughtful and best of all, without the scary price tags.

A handmade Christmas present does not have to mean hours of collages and papier mache to pull off some arts and crafts magic, it is simply putting in a little extra time and effort for the best reward.

So, what gifts can you make by hand?

Christmas hampers

Hampers can be the most versatile Christmas gifts to give, as they can range in price to suit you, and you can mix and match any goodies that you like.

For your parents or in-laws, maybe a wine and cheese hamper? Look out for local produce and maybe a selection of 2-3 different cheeses, 1 bottle of wine of your choice and you can fill the rest with yummy crackers, and chutneys and other yummy goodies.

For your friends or your sisters, try a self-care hamper. You can pick up a load of Penney’s face masks, maybe a new moisturiser, a good body wash and you can fill the rest with yummy sweets and treats that won’t break the bank.

Home-baked goodies

If you have a talent for baking, this is the time to use it to your advantage. Why not bake a batch of brownies, cupcakes or cookies or even some loaves of bread? A small selection of homemade goodies is sure to put a smile on anyone’s face!

Even if baking isn’t your strong suit, if you can read, you can follow a recipe and create something yummy and personal. This plan is also handy for when you need many gifts at a low cost.

Jams, marmalades and chutneys

Another idea for when you’re in a pinch and need many gifts on a budget, is to make jarred goods at home. Homemade jams and marmalades are much easier than you expect, and a big batch with some of those old jars that you hoard in the back of your cupboard, is the perfect thoughtful gift for anyone whether they are your friend, family member or colleague. Slap on a Christmas ribbon and a label with their name on it, and voila!

And if you want to spice things up a bit, why not try making a chutney? Choose your favourite flavours and ingredients and watch your friends’ faces light up.

And to top it all off, a great homemade way to add some personal love to a gift, is to make your own Christmas card. Dust off those artistic talents, or glue on some easy snowflakes.

If you have the time, little details like this will make all the difference this Christmas.